[UPDATED] PAS must abandon PN if they want in with us in GE15: Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR – Islamist party PAS must cut all ties with Perikatan Nasional (PN), especially its lynchpin party Bersatu, if they wish to stand with Umno in the coming 15th general election, said Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The Umno president also said the party has conveyed the necessary terms to PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang along with a definitive timeline for them to do so.

“Obviously it is the main term (for them to cut ties with PN). They also know exactly when (they should do it),” he said during a press conference at the World Trade Centre today.

Zahid however did not disclose exactly when PAS should do so before the Islamist party had gone past the point of no return with Umno.

However, according to a party insider, Umno has set three main terms for PAS, all revolving them cutting complete ties with PN and they should do so before parliament is official dissolved.

Zahid also explained that Umno and BN are willing to compromise and allow PAS to use their own logo if they decide to stand with the coalition in the coming general election.

Earlier today, Hadi had reiterated that PAS is willing to cooperate with other parties except for Pakatan Harapan, alluding to a possible tie-up with Umno under Muafakat Nasional.

However, in the same statement, Hadi also said the party rejects holding snap polls, insisting that priority should be on the economy and the year-end flood season.

The Bagan Datuk MP was speaking at a special meeting at the World Trade Center earlier today with some 800 grassroots party leaders.

The closed-door meeting was held as to rally the party under the banner of unity and solidarity before heading into the coming election.

Heading into GE15, Zahid also said that he had assurances from Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) that they will support all candidates put forward by BN. 

Similarly, Zahid also explained that BN is still considering the application of seven new parties to be part of the coalition for the coming general election.

This includes Parti Bangsa Malaysia led by its president-designate and Ampang MP Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin.

Zahid also said that BN is finalising its candidate list and will present it to each respective state liaison chairman starting next Monday. – The Vibes, October 4, 2022